A Step Up

A Step Up in Colati, California, is a collegiate recovery community and sober living environment operated in partnership with Sonoma State University. 

They offer programs that focus on supporting students in recovery from substance use disorders while completing their higher education. The center primarily serves college students enrolled at Sonoma State University who are in active recovery from substance abuse and welcomes both men and women. 

Services Available Here

The center’s services include group support meetings, relapse prevention workshops, and case management. Its counseling and care are open to students requiring a supportive sober living environment. Upon arriving, clients will find comfortable, gender segregated apartment style living with communal spaces. I really like this option of a supportive peer driven environment focused on substance free living

Accessing University Resources

One of the aspects that is important about this community is that residents have access to university resources such as study rooms, recreation facilities, and dining halls. Sobriety is required for residency in the program. 

Costs are associated with university housing fees and traditional rehab insurance is not necessary. The center’s fee structure is similar to other on-campus housing options and financial aid may be available through the university. 

During participation in the therapy program, services include group support meetings, relapse prevention workshops, and case management. I like that during your recovery journey, the center provides you with connections to clinical treatment, counseling, and mental health resources as needed. It also allows you to continue with your studies as residents have access to academic support and guidance while maintaining their recovery.

Special Parts of the Program

Some of the special aspects of this program are that it emphasizes peer support and a community building approach rather than clinical rehabilitation. The staff believe in integrating recovery principles into university life while focusing on individual responsibility, mutual respect, and personal growth in recovery. The center is managed by professionals with experience in collegiate recovery and student affairs. 

The facility is situated near Sonoma State University’s main campus, with areas such as Cotati Downtown, Cotati Plaza Park, and La Plaza Park nearby for recreation and relaxation. Additionally, Sonoma County’s vineyards and rural landscapes provide options for nature focused extracurricular and recovery supportive activities.